In court filings this week, Ellis maintains that a special grand jury lacked the authority to pursue allegations of theft, extortion and conspiracy against Ellis. Ellis’ lawyers also claim that DeKalb County District Attorney Robert James did not provide their defendant with required notice of the indictment.

Officials say Ellis on Monday formally waived his arraignment and pleaded not guilty to all charges.

A 15-count grand jury indictment charges Ellis with trying to extort campaign contributions from companies and their employees. Prosecutors allege Ellis instructed the county’s director of purchasing and contracting to prevent some companies from getting business because they didn’t contribute to his campaign.